The days are getting warmer. People are flocking to the beaches. Sunscreen and ice cream sales are on the rise. It seems we just settled into spring and yet summer is right around the corner. Today we will explore an Ayurvedic tonic called Gulkand, which can help curb the excessive heat of summer.
Summer is Pitta season, consisting of the elements of fire and water, and is hot and dry. Applying the Ayurvedic principle of like increases like, we know summer increases Pitta disturbances such as acidity, hives and rashes, heartburn, anger, and criticism (to our own self and others). Those with Pitta predominance in constitution are particularly susceptible to pitta disturbances and should take extra care to apply the opposite cooling qualities to body and mind before summer starts.
Gulkand, or rose petal jam, is an Ayurvedic tonic to pacify excessive Pitta, or heat, in the body. The rose represents the open heart, love, and devotion – antidotes to anger and criticism. We give roses to show our love, support those in grief, and to celebrate.
Rose petal jam is made by layering clean rose petals and sugar in an air tight glass or ceramic jar. The jar is left in the sun for 6 hours a day from 10 days to 4 weeks, until a jam life consistency has been achieved.
Gulkand is beneficial for relieving inflamed skin, rashes, ulcers, tiredness, lethargy, itching, aches, and pains. General recommendation is 1-2 teaspoons of Gulkand once per day.
Here are some other benefits of taking Gulkand:
- Powerful antioxidant and tissue rejuvenator
- Reduce acidity in stomach
- Calms ulcers in stomach and mouth
- Strengthens teeth and gums
- Treat dysmenorrhea and menstrual pain
- Digestive tonic
- Relieves inflamed eyes
- Purifies the blood and thus helps to give a clear complexion to skin
- Reduce perspiration and body odor
- Prevent sunstroke
- Calming for the nervous system
NOTE: Those with diabetes should consult their doctor before consuming Gulkand since it contains sugar.
Taking 1 – 2 teaspoons per day before going outside can prevent heat related illness.
Interested in learning more about Ayurvedic herbs and spices? Join us at our upcoming workshop May 20th! We hope to see you there.
Many Blessings,
Santa Cruz Ayurveda
References:
- “Ayurvedic Home Remedies: Top 11 Health Benefits of Gulkand (Rose-Petal Jam)”. Healthmeup.com.
- “Health benefits of Gulkand Or Rose Petal Jam”. Pankajakasthuri.in.